The buildings of India are steeped in history. This is true of such grand architecture as the Taj Mahal, and is also true of the smaller structures, such as many of the Mumbai hotels. Perhaps non are more rich the cultural and societal heritage as the churches and temples throughout the city and the entire country as well. One such temple is that of Walkeshwar. It sits atop Malabar hill and was build by the Silhara kings, a dynasty that had rule over Mumbai, then called Bombay, between the ninth and thirteenth centuries. Folklore states that this temple was built by Lord Rama. The site was named Walkeshwar, due to the sand, and means…Idol made of sand. Rama Kamath, a philanthropist and wealthy Bombay businessman renovated the temple in 1715. There are many legends that surround the temple, one being that upon the thirst felt by Lord Rama, he shoot arrows at the site which produced a fountain of water from the sandy ground. Many of the citizens of India make pilgrimages to the temple to pray and to worship the sacred spot. Each year there is a festival that is sponsored by the Maharashtra Tourism Development group at the site. It is two days filled with concerts and smaller live music performances and draws many spectators and tourists.
One of the most prominent religious structures in Mumbai is the Mary Church. This draws those from all backgrounds of worship and faith. It is located in the sector of West Bandra sector of Mumbai, and was built in 1640 by the Portuguese. This place of worship is known for the belief in the power of prayer. In Mumbai, Mother Mary is referred to as Math Mauli. And in keeping with the spirit of the people of Mumbai, there is a festival held each year here, during September. It is a festival that honors the Virgin, and culminates in an exciting carnival where food is celebrated, art is celebrated, and wax candles in the form of the Virgin are created by artists (http://mumbai.vivastreet.co.in/singer-composer-find-post-free+mumbai)and sold. Many who are in need of help converge upon the festival in hopes of receiving blessing from the Mother Mary. This is a location that is just as picturesque and beautiful as it is sacred. Views of the Arabian Sea are splendid, and many travel to this location throughout the year, as stated previously, regardless of their religious background and beliefs.
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